Just moments ago, San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt addressed the media following the announcement of his one-game suspension by Major League Baseball. The disciplinary action comes in the wake of a bench-clearing confrontation during last night’s heated matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Shildt, who will serve the suspension immediately, acknowledged the league’s decision and took responsibility for his part in escalating tensions on the field.
“I understand why MLB made the call,” Shildt said during a brief press conference. “The main purpose of the suspension is to uphold the integrity of the game and remind everyone—players and coaches alike—that there are lines we shouldn’t cross, even in high-stakes moments.”
The incident occurred in the sixth inning after a series of inside pitches and mounting frustration led both benches to clear. While no punches were thrown, the intensity between the longtime division rivals reached a boiling point, prompting league officials to take swift action.
MLB cited “unsportsmanlike conduct and failure to de-escalate” as reasons for Shildt’s suspension. Several players from both teams received fines but avoided suspension.
“Emotions were running high,” Shildt added. “But at the end of the day, it’s on us as leaders to set the tone. I didn’t do that well enough in that moment.”
The Padres will face the Dodgers again tonight without their skipper in the dugout, with bench coach Ryan Flaherty stepping in as acting manager.
